Meet the Seattle Makers Joining the Circular Fashion Movement
Seattle has always been a city of makers — a place where creativity and conscience intersect. From sustainable textiles to ethical jewelry, this city’s artisans are proving that design and responsibility can go hand in hand.
Among the brightest examples of that spirit is the Refugee Arts Initiative (RAI) — a local nonprofit that empowers refugee and immigrant women through sustainable craft and circular fashion.
Creating Opportunity Through Art
Founded in Seattle’s Northgate neighborhood, Refugee Arts Initiative transforms donated and recycled materials into beautifully made, small-batch products — from tote bags crafted with repurposed textiles to home goods stitched from fabric scraps that might otherwise go to waste.
Each item tells a story of resilience. Every stitch supports women rebuilding their lives, gaining income, and finding belonging in a new community.
By reusing materials that once had another life, RAI not only reduces waste but also teaches real-world skills — product design, sewing, entrepreneurship — that create independence and pride.
A Shared Vision for Circular Change
Cleo Escarez, founder of Redyoos, proudly serves on the Board of Directors for Refugee Arts Initiative.
Her journey in the jewelry world led her to recognize how much value and beauty are hidden in what we call “waste.” Redyoos and RAI share the same philosophy: that materials — and people — deserve second chances.
Through her board role, Cleo supports RAI’s mission to expand opportunities for refugee artisans while deepening Seattle’s commitment to ethical, circular design. Together, they’re bridging the gap between fashion, sustainability, and community.
Seattle’s Circular Fashion Network
Seattle’s growing circular fashion ecosystem includes local designers, recyclers, and innovators who share one goal — to prove that beauty doesn’t have to come at a cost.
Redyoos recycles precious metals from old jewelry.
Refugee Arts Initiative reuses textiles to empower makers.
Together, they show what can happen when small, local efforts connect around a shared purpose.
Join the Movement
The circular fashion movement starts with community — people choosing to make a difference one small act at a time.
You can support this growing ecosystem by:
- Donating materials or tools to Refugee Arts Initiative
- Shopping from local circular makers
- Recycling your unused jewelry through Redyoos
Each action matters. Each connection builds belonging.
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Together, Seattle’s makers are redefining what sustainability looks like — and proving that when creativity and compassion meet, everyone shines.
